450Km in 1Hr: China Unveils - CR450 - World's Fastest Train

Beijing: China unveiled a prototype of its next-generation high-speed train, the CR450, which is set to become the fastest in the world. The CR450 can reach an impressive speed of 450 km/h in just one hour, with an operational speed of 400 km/h. According to China's Ministry of Transport, the CR450 has already achieved a test speed of 450 km/h.

China is already home to some of the world’s fastest commercial high-speed trains, including the Shanghai Maglev. This train, which connects Pudong International Airport to downtown Shanghai, holds the record for the world’s fastest commercial train service, with a top speed of 430 km/h.  

Development and Performance

The CR450 was developed by CRRC Changchun Railway Vehicles and CRRC Sifang Co., Ltd. After undergoing more than 3,000 simulations and 2,000 platform tests, the train is now set to meet commercial operation standards.

The prototype has received praise for its impressive operational speed, energy efficiency, noise control, and braking performance. 

According to the China State Railway Group, further line tests and refinements will be conducted to ensure the CR450 meets all necessary standards before entering commercial service.

CR450's Extraordinary Features

The CR450 prototype consists of two models—CR450AF and CR450BF—each with an eight-car formation, including four powered and four non-powered carriages.

These trains are equipped with advanced emergency braking systems and over 4,000 sensors to monitor critical systems in real-time. 

To ensure optimal technical performance, China Railway will conduct a series of line tests on these prototypes before commercial rollout.

China’s High-Speed Rail Network And CR450’s Impact

China’s high-speed rail network, one of the largest in the world, spans over 160,000 kilometers, including 46,000 km of high-speed rail lines. The network is essential for connecting major cities with rural areas and plays a crucial role in the country’s transportation system.

Beijing has long sought to create a pan-Asian railway network, with plans to link Kunming to Singapore via Laos, Thailand, and Malaysia, with potential extensions into Vietnam and Cambodia. By 2035, China plans to expand its railway network to 200,000 km, with 70,000 km dedicated to high-speed lines, further boosting its global rail influence.